Once again, it’s been a privilege serving the NCN District. 2023 was a great year. I would like to thank Pastor Abe Daniels and the staff of Trinity Life Center for hosting District Council. They were conscientious and kind. My thanks to the players and singers who gave their time and humbly offered their wonderful gifts to God and to us. Great ministry took place. For the year 2023, I would like to give Pastor Ben Brown special thanks. Situations prohibited my involvement in some of last year’s events, and Pastor Ben stepped up and did a great job. Many of you know him, as he is involved in events throughout the District. He’s a talented and humble man. Keep your eye on Ben and his wife Jill as they continue to use their gifts to creatively minister to the local church. 

Probably the biggest news for Gina and I is that January 28, 2024, was our last Sunday at Bethel Church San Jose. I resigned after 33 years! Now that’s a whole lot of wonderful history, but all along the way, our prayer and desire was to end well. There are many who have had fruitful ministry and longevity at a church. Unfortunately, some of them suffered criticism as their time drew to a close. Why? Because they started to change. Certain attitudes began to show, and those attitudes unsettled their church family. Unless you’re careful, time can lull you into thinking that your church is your source. You know what’s expected and become comfortable with the status quo. Then, you start to see changes that challenge your thinking and methodologies. Ultimately, you can become fearful that to fully adapt, you’ll end up losing part of yourself. 

Dare I say – that’s not God’s plan. Regardless of where you’re ministering, God wants you to minister in freedom. Oh sure, it can be hard work – but to coin a phrase made popular by the Peace Corps, “It’s the toughest job you’ll ever love.”

Whether you’re young or old or on a staff for 5 years or 15 years (or more), change can be a challenge. But the fact is - challenging moments have a purpose. If you let them, they will remind you that God is your true source and that He wants to show Himself strong in your life.

I’m happy to report that God granted Gina and I the opportunity to end well. We were humbled by the honor we were shown, and our wonderful relationships remain intact. I’m now on an exciting adventure and learning new things each day. 

If you feel a stirring in your heart but don’t quite know what to do with it, I’d love to encourage you. Please contact me through the DRC. I can tell you that God really does have a plan! 

My thanks to Pastor Bret, Dr. Sam, Dr. Jay, the DRC staff, and you – the wonderful spiritual family that makes this District such a special place to minister. I’d also like to thank Pastor Frank Silverii and the staff and congregation of Bethel Church San Jose. For over 3 decades they loved me and my family and showed us countless acts of kindness. 

Respectfully Submitted,

Rev. Jon Lugo